Becoming a woman begins with the coming of a young lady’s first menstrual cycle. As women, we can positively teach our daughters about their cycle by instructing them on how their bodies work, how God has designed them as a woman, and what they can expect during their monthly cycle. We can make sure they understand the need for a proper attitude about menstruation, good nutrition, healthy body weight, moderate exercise, avoiding toxins, and maintaining good daily hygiene. It is also important to let our daughters know they have the freedom to talk to us about menstruation when questions arise.

Personal Story

When I was a teenager, I had a surprising experience. I was on a field trip and our class had just watched a movie on the onset of menstruation. I went to the bathroom and found that I had started my first period! My mother had prepared me for the coming day, but I wasn’t expecting it to start on a field trip. I dealt with it the best I could, but it was a shocking experience for me. I became a believer in helping young women be prepared for the big event.

Preparations

A young woman can prepare for her first menstrual cycle by learning the following information.

1. A young woman can learn about changes in her body which show the approaching first menstrual cycle. These include a growth spurt, cyclical mood swings, breast development, growth of pubic hair, and some cramping or upset stomach.
2. She can become aware of how her choices for nutrition, exercise, sleep habits, stress reduction, endocrine health, less environmental toxin exposure, and social or emotional support system will affect her fertility and metabolic health.
3. Learning how to care of herself during menstruation is important. This includes knowing how to choose menstrual products, chart her cycle/blood flow on a calendar, and handle stress or discomfort.
4. She can acquire knowledge on how to use sanitary menstrual products and have some available for the onset of menses.
5. Good nutrition will help meet her growing body be healthy. She may consider taking a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement and extra calcium to help her build strong bones. Daily exercise, both aerobic and weight-bearing will strengthen her bones.
6. She can try to limit environmental exposure to xenobiotics that can affect hormonal health.

The first menstrual cycle is a big event in the life of a young woman on her journey to womanhood. Having knowledge of what to expect will help her know how to handle things when she starts her first period. Celebrate this event with your daughter. Perhaps, you could present her with a ring or take her out for a snack or dinner to convey how proud you are of the young woman she is becoming. Keeping the lines of communication open between mother and daughter will be a real advantage to helping with the transition to womanhood.

How did your mother or another woman help you prepare for the coming of your monthly cycle?

Please encourage others by writing in the comment section.